The Shurlock Inn Reading

This gastropub was built way back in the 17th century in the village of Shurlock Row. Things probably haven't changed very much since then; these days, the focus is on British steaks, gin and ales. But while it's ye olde worlde all the way from the outside, the look inside is bang up-to-date – more metropolitan cocktail bar than country pub. The space features a dining room which boasts an open kitchen, along with a saloon bar that comes with a double-sided fireplace.

To eat, there's a line-up of seasonally changing dishes made where possible with local produce. Expect the likes of home-cured smoked pork belly with a caramelised apple purée, a white onion risotto with truffle crème fraiche, or steaks from the pub’s very own butchery.

After-dinner treats include a cocoa croissant pudding with clotted cream ice cream or an apricot and lemon tart, while wines come from across the globe. Kids' menus, roasts on Sundays and a seasonal outdoor kitchen make The Shurlock Inn a true all-rounder.    

Found in Reading, The Shurlock Inn (not to be confused with Baker Street’s most famous detective) is a charming 17th-century pub and restaurant which serves a menu that champions ingredients made by local, British producers.

The Shurlock Inn may be centuries old, but this is certainly not a pub that is falling apart. In fact, the dining room here is a contemporary and stylish space, complete with cosy tub chairs in colourful hues, jazzy tiled flooring and corner banquettes that are ideal for small groups. There is also plenty of natural light, thanks to large windows and a skylight on the ceiling, while the well-kept beer garden is the place to be on sunnier days.

The a la carte at The Shurlock Inn is a modern British affair, which makes the most of seasonal and regional ingredients. You can begin your meal with nibbles such as rosemary almonds or marinated olives, before moving on to starters proper including a tomato and spinach tart of fillet steak tartare topped with an egg yolk and served atop beef dripping toast. For main courses, choose between the likes of pan-fried halibut with Jerusalem artichoke and rainbow chard, or slow-roasted pork belly with cabbage and creamed potato. If you’re feeling indulgent, instead opt for a steak from the grill, all of which come complete with your choice of sauce.

To round off your meal, tuck into a sweet treat such as lemon meringue shortbread with raspberry sorbet or chocolate and hazelnut praline with whipped caramel. If you prefer savoury delights, check out the exclusively British cheese board.

Children are welcome too at The Shurlock Inn thanks to a dedicated kids menu offering up macaroni pasta and chocolate brownie, while on Sundays the whole family can enjoy a classic roast complete with all the trimmings.